Braking mechanisms

ABSTRACT

An eddy-current mechanism including a rotor rotatable about a rotor axis at least one electrically conductive material coupled to the rotor for rotation therewith, at least one magnet configured to apply a magnetic field extending at least partially orthogonal to the plane of rotation of the conductive member, and characterised in that upon rotation of the rotor, the conductive member is configured to move at least partially radially from the rotor axis into the applied magnetic field.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/464,255, filed Aug. 20, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,518,115, which isa continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/255,625, filedNov. 18, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,851,235, which is a National Stageentry of PCT/NZ2010/000011, filed Jan. 29, 2010, which claims priorityto New Zealand application no. 575464 filed Mar. 10, 2009, all of whichare incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to improvements in and relating to brakingmechanisms and more particularly to an improved eddy-current brakingmechanism.

BACKGROUND ART

Eddy-current braking systems are used in a range of applications toprovide non-contact braking and offer a significant advantage overconventional friction brakes as there is no frictional contact betweenthe braking surfaces.

Eddy-current brakes function on the principle that when a conductormoves through a magnetic field (or vice-versa) the relative motioninduces circulating ‘eddies’ of electric current in the conductor. Thecurrent eddies in turn induce magnetic fields that oppose the effect ofthe applied magnetic field. Eddy-current brakes thus utilise theopposing magnetic fields to act as a brake on movement of the conductorin the magnetic field, or vice versa. The strength of the eddy currentmagnetic field, and therefore the opposing force is dependant on anumber of factors including the:

-   -   strength of the applied magnetic field;    -   magnetic flux through the conductor;    -   geometrical dimensions of the conductor and magnetic field, e.g.        size, physical separation;    -   electrical conductivity of the conductor; and    -   relative velocity between the conductor and magnetic field.

A variable braking force is thus achieved by varying any one or more ofthe above parameters.

To aid clarity and avoid prolixity, reference herein is made withrespect to applications requiring a braking/retarding torque forrotating members and more particularly to an auto-belay system for whichthe present invention has particular application. However, referenceherein to an auto-belay system should not be seen to be limiting as itwill be appreciated by one skilled in the art that there are innumerableapplications for eddy-current braking systems.

The speed of rotation (angular velocity) of the rotor with respect tothe magnetic field will herein be referred to as the “rotation speed” orwhere convenient shortened to “speed”.

Rotary plate-type eddy-current braking systems typically use aparamagnetic conductive disc that is configured to rotate in a planeorthogonal to a magnetic field applied by magnets positioned on one orboth sides of the disc. The eddy currents, and corresponding magneticfield, are generated when the disc is rotated relative to the magneticfield. A braking torque is thereby applied to the rotating disc. Ahigher relative velocity between the conductor and magnets will resultin a higher braking torque thereby potentially limiting the rotationspeed.

The braking torque is linearly proportional to the speed only until athreshold ‘characteristic speed’ is reached. Above this characteristicspeed the braking torque response to speed becomes non-linear and peaksbefore beginning to reduce with further speed increases. Thischaracteristic is illustrated in FIG. 1 which shows an approximate plotof braking torque against rotation speed for a typical disc-typeeddy-current braking system. The characteristic speed is dependant onthe resistivity of the disc which is dependant on the temperature,materials, magnetic permeability, and construction of the disc.

The braking torque of a typical eddy current disc system operating belowthe characteristic speed is determined approximately by the followingrelationship:

T∝AdB²R²ω

Where the braking torque T is proportional to:

A—the conductor surface area intersecting the magnetic field;

B²—applied magnetic field strength—squared;

d—thickness of the disc;

R²—the radius (distance) from the axis of rotation to the conductor inthe magnetic field—squared;

ω—rotational speed.

A non-linear response of braking torque may thus be achieved by varyingthe magnetic field strength B and/or the distance to the center ofrotation R.

The magnetic field can be supplied by permanent magnets and/orelectro-magnets. The strength of the magnetic field is dependant on themagnetic field intensity and the configuration of the magnetic circuit,i.e. the materials used and spatial positions of the components in thesystem.

For permanent magnet systems, variation of the magnetic circuit (e.g.variation in A, d or R) is the most effective way to alter the brakingtorque. Typical eddy-current brake systems thus position the magnetstoward the periphery of the disc to maximise R.

Common magnetic circuit configurations utilise permanent magnetspositioned on one or both sides of the disc with steel backing behindeach magnet. The steel plates are provided to enhance the magnetic fieldstrength while providing structural support for the magnets.

An auto-belay device is used in climbing, abseiling and the like tocontrol the descent rate of the climber. The auto-belay alsoautomatically retracts line when the climber is ascending to maintainline tension thus avoiding slack occurring in the line.

Existing auto-belay systems typically use a friction-brake or hydraulicdampening mechanism to control the descent rate. Friction-brakes clearlyhave disadvantages compared with eddy-current brakes as the frictionalcontact involves substantial heat generation, wear and correspondingsafety problems. Hydraulic dampening mechanisms are expensive andvulnerable to leaks, pressure and calibration problems.

An ideal auto-belay system would provide a constant or controllabledescent rate with minimal friction and corresponding wear while alsoproviding sufficient braking force in a small compact device.

The prior art is replete with various eddy-current braking systems.However, none of the prior art systems appear suitable for applicationin an auto-belay or other applications where a constant speed ofrotation is required where the torque applied may vary.

Typical prior art plate-type braking systems use various magneticcircuit configurations and have attendant pros and cons. Examples oftypical prior art devices are described below.

One prior art plate-type eddy-current braking device is described inU.S. Pat. No. 4,567,963 by Sugimoto and comprises a conductive disccoupled to a rotor via an overdrive gear arrangement to rotate the discat a proportionally greater rotational speed than the rotor. The rotorincludes a spool from which a line is dispensed. A series of permanentmagnets are attached to an iron plate extending parallel to the disc'splane of rotation and spaced radially with respect to the axis ofrotation. These magnets produce eddy-currents in the disc duringrotation and, axiomatically, a corresponding magnetic field and brakingeffect. The Sugimoto system also includes radiator fins to assist indissipation of the heat generated by the eddy-currents in the disc. Therotation of the rotor is retarded with an increasing force as therotational speed (w) increases. The overdrive arrangement provides anincreased retardant force compared to a disc directly coupled to therotor and thus, in the Sugimoto device, the aforementioned torquerelationship would be similar to T∝AdB²R²kω where k is the overdrivegear ratio.

While the Sugimoto device may be more effective than simple plate-typesystems it cannot be adjusted to vary the braking force applied andrelies on an overdrive mechanism to improve braking force i.e. byincreasing the relative speed between disc and magnetic field. Theoverdrive mechanism adds to cost, complexity, size, wear, increased heatgeneration and possibility of failure.

Furthermore, the speed of rotation of the rotor will still vary with theapplied torque.

The Sugimoto device has provided a larger braking effect relative tosmaller devices by varying the rotational speed. However, the gearmechanism constrains the limits of size and thus the degree ofminiaturisation possible. The Sugimoto device is thus undesirable forauto-belays which require a compact device with safe, reliable operationduring frequent, and/or prolonged use.

A similar device to that of Sugimoto is described in U.S. Pat. No.5,342,000 by Berges et al. Berges et al. describe a plate-typeeddy-current braking system with a centrifugal clutch that engages theeddy-current braking system when the rotor reaches a sufficientrotational speed.

It should be noted that neither the Sugimoto nor Berges et al devicescan be adjusted to control the braking effect without disassembling andchanging the overdrive gear ratios or magnet strength. Thus, thesedevices prove inconvenient in applications that need to accommodatedifferent applied torques.

Attempts have been made at providing variable braking systems andexemplary devices are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,612,469 by Muramatsu,EP 1,480,320 by lmanishi et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,721,394 by Reiser andU.S. Pat. No. 6,460,828 by Gersemsky et al.

The Muramatsu device has a rotating disc with a manually adjustableposition with respect to a magnet array, thus providing a means in whichto vary the area (A) of magnetic field intercepted by the disc. TheMuramatsu device may be adjustable to vary the braking effect and themaximum braking torque achievable but is still constrained by the sizeof the disc and strength of magnets, thus proving inconvenient where asmaller size is advantageous, e.g. for auto-belay devices. Furthermore,the Muramatsu device must be varied manually.

The device described by lmanashi et al works on a similar principle tothat described by Muramatsu. However, instead of varying the disc areaintersected by the magnetic field, the lmanashi et al system uses amagnet array attached to a linear drive to move the array axially awayor toward the disc to respectively reduce or increase the separation andthe magnetic field flux the disc intersects. As with the Muramatsudevice, the braking effect of the lmanashi et al. cannot beautomatically adjusted to accommodate different applied torques.

An automatic version of the lmanashi et al. device is described in U.S.Pat. No. 3,721,394 by Reiser and positions a line spool coupled to aconductive disc above a magnet array with a spring therebetween. As theline is unwound from the spool, the weight on the spring reduces and thespring extends, increasing the spacing between the disc and magnet andthereby decreasing the braking effect as the line is unwound. The springis calibrated so that the speed of rotation of the spool remainsconstant as the line is unwound. The Reiser system is reliant on astatic supporting arrangement and varying weight change in the spool andis thus unsuitable for an auto-belay device. Furthermore, the brakingeffect of the Reiser device varies only with rotation speed and magneticfield strength and not applied torque.

A brake for a hoist is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,460,828 by Gersemskyet al. and uses a magnetic circuit that varies the position of a magnetwith respect to a rotating conductive disc. The magnet is attached to afree end of a pivoting arm with a spring attached to the free end and toa static point adjacent the disc. As the disc rotates, the eddy-currentsinduced provide a braking effect on the disc to inhibit rotation. Areactive force is applied to the magnet by the braking effect to pivotthe arm to move the magnet radially outward to increase braking torque.The spring will compress and oppose this reactive force therebyproviding a braking effect on the disc. Reverse rotation of the discwill result in an opposing reactive force that will force the magnet inan opposite direction, the spring then extending and opposing thereactive force to apply the braking effect. Thus, the Gersemsky et al.system provides a sufficient braking effect regardless of the directionof rotation of the disc. The radial movement of the magnet alsoincreases braking effect as a result of increasing relative velocity.

The Gersemsky et al. system, while fulfilling its purpose, is limited inadaptability as the braking torque applied is dependant on only therelative velocity (proportional to speed of rotation and radius to axisof rotation) of the magnets. Furthermore, auto-belay devices typicallyrequire braking in only one direction and thus universal braking devicessuch as the Gersemsky et al. system may be unsuitable.

It would thus be advantageous to provide an eddy-current brakingmechanism that is capable of limiting the speed of rotation of a rotorover a wide range of applied loads or torques.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoingproblems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited inthis specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission ismade that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of thereferences states what their authors assert, and the applicants reservethe right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the citeddocuments. It will be clearly understood that, although a number ofprior art publications are referred to herein; this reference does notconstitute an admission that any of these documents form part of thecommon general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any othercountry.

It is acknowledged that the term ‘comprise’ may, under varyingjurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusivemeaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwisenoted, the term ‘comprise’ shall have an inclusive meaning—i.e. that itwill be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components itdirectly references, but also other non-specified components orelements. This rationale will also be used when the term ‘comprised’ or‘comprising’ is used in relation to one or more steps in a method orprocess.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of exampleonly.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is providedan eddy-current braking mechanism including;

-   -   a rotor, rotatable about a rotor axis;    -   at least one electrically conductive member coupled to the rotor        for rotation therewith;    -   at least one magnet configured to apply a magnetic field        extending at least partially orthogonal to the plane of rotation        of the conductive member; and

characterised in that upon rotation of the rotor, the conductive memberis configured to move at least partially radially from the rotor axisinto the applied magnetic field.

In general, movement of the conductive member through the appliedmagnetic field induces an eddy-current in the conductive member when theconductive member intersects the magnetic field.

To aid clarity and avoid prolixity, reference herein will be made to theconductive member being coupled to the rotor. However, it will beappreciated that a ‘reverse’ configuration is also possible and withinthe scope of the present invention. This ‘reverse’ configuration mayhave the magnet coupled to the rotor and configured to move toward aconductive member such that the conductive member will intersect themagnetic field.

To aid clarity and to avoid prolixity the present invention will bedescribed herein with respect to a braking mechanism for an auto-belayfor which the present invention has particular application. However, itshould be appreciated that the present invention may be used in otherrotary braking or retarding applications and thus reference herein to anauto-belay is exemplary only and should not be seen to be limiting.

It will also be appreciated that the present invention may also be usedin linear braking applications by coupling the rotor to a linear device,e.g. by a cam or chain drive mechanism.

Reference herein to “radial” movement of the conductive member should beunderstood to include any movement with a component in a directiontoward or away from the axis of rotation of the rotor and/or conductivemember and should be interpreted to include both linear and non-linearradial movement.

Reference herein to “outward” radial movement refers to movement in adirection away from the axis of rotation and similarly “inward” refersto a direction toward the axis of rotation.

Reference herein to the conductive member being “coupled” to the rotorshould be understood to mean any direct or indirect connection such thatthe conductive member rotates with the rotor. It should also beappreciated that connection need not be mechanical.

To aid clarity, the magnetic field applied by the magnet will herein bereferred to as the “applied” magnetic field and the magnetic field(s)generated by eddy-currents in the conductive member are referred to as“reactive” magnetic field(s).

In preferred embodiments the eddy-current induced in the conductivemember generates a reactive magnetic field opposing the applied magneticfield. The reactive force generated by the opposing ‘applied’ and‘reactive’ magnetic fields is thus transferred to the conductive memberto oppose movement thereof. As the conductive members are coupled to therotor, the rotation of the rotor is also opposed by the reactive force.

As used herein, the terms “brake” or “braking” respectively refer to anyapparatus or process for applying a force opposing movement of anobject.

As used herein, the term “rotor” refers to any rotatable element and mayinclude a: driveshaft, axle, gear, screw, disc, wheel, cog, combinationthereof or any other rotatable member.

As used herein, the term “conductive member” refers to any electricallyconductive, preferably non-ferrous member.

As used herein, the term “magnet” refers to any magnet or device capableof generating a magnetic field and may include electromagnets,‘permanent’ magnets, ‘temporary’ magnets, magnetised ferromagneticmaterials, or any combination thereof.

Preferably, the conductive member is configured to move at leastpartially radially from the rotor axis into the magnetic field.

Preferably the conductive member rotates with the rotor about the rotoraxis.

It should be appreciated that the conductive member need not be directlyconnected to the rotor and could instead be connected via intermediategears or other couplings. In such embodiments the gear or couplingattached to the conductive member can be considered the ‘rotor’ or partthereof.

It should also be appreciated that in such embodiments where theconductive member is indirectly coupled to the rotor, the conductivemember may rotate about another axis parallel or non-parallel to therotor axis.

In a further embodiment, the rotor may be coupled to an input shaft orthe like via an overdrive, or underdrive, gear transmission arrangement,such that the rotor rotates at a different speed to that of the inputshaft.

Preferably, the rotor is coupled to a spool of line and configured forrotation therewith. Thus, the rate of line dispensing, or retracting,from the spool can be controlled by controlling the speed of rotation ofthe rotor with the braking mechanism.

Preferably, the braking mechanism includes a plurality of electricallyconductive members (henceforth referred to simply as conductivemembers).

The braking effect may be increased by increasing the number ofconductive members moving through the applied magnetic field. However,the number and size of the conductive members will be limited by thesize and weight constraints of the application. Thus, for example, inauto-belay applications, preferably three said conductive members areprovided.

Preferably, the conductive member is pivotally attached to the rotor andconfigured to pivot about a pivot axis to move at least partiallyradially into the applied magnetic field upon rotation of the rotor.

Preferably, the conductive member is pivotally attached to the rotor ata point eccentric to the rotor axis.

The conductive member preferably has a center of mass (or mass centroid)eccentric to the pivot and rotor axes. The conductive member will thuspivot as a result of torque applied to the conductive member by therotor via the pivot connection and by centrifugal effects acting on theconductive member which are centred on the center of mass. The strengthof centrifugal effect is dependant on the rotor speed and appliedtorque, thus the conductive member will move radially at a ratedependant on the rotor speed as well as a result of applied torque.

In another embodiment, the center of mass (or mass centroid) may belocated at the pivot axis. For example, the conductive member may beshaped with a counter balance arrangement with an even mass distributionabout the pivot axis. Such an embodiment provides a transfer of radialforce directly about the pivot axis and as such does not apply a momentto the arm about the pivot axis. Therefore the braked response in thisembodiment is independent of the radial force acting on the arm mass.

It should be appreciated that the conductive member may be of any shapesuitable for the application. The shape of the conductive memberdetermines the area of magnetic field intersected by the conductivemember when moving radially into the magnetic field, the eddy-currentsand reactive magnetic field generated, and therefore the correspondingbraking torque. The shape of the conductive member may be modified tomodify the braking torque characteristics required for an application.

Preferably, one end of a biasing device, such as a spring or otherbiasing member/mechanism, is attached to the conductive member at apoint distal to the pivot axis and the other end to the rotor at aposition to provide a bias opposing the radial movement of theconductive member resulting from rotor rotation. Calibration of thebiasing device thus provides a means for controlling the rate of radialmovement of the conductive member and therefore the area of conductivemember intersecting the applied magnetic field. The braking forceapplied to the conductive member during movement through the appliedmagnetic field may also be applied to the rotor via the biasing deviceand/or through the attachment of the conductive member to the rotor.

Preferably, the biasing device includes a calibration mechanism capableof selectively increasing and/or decreasing the level of biasing devicebias applied. Such a calibration mechanism may, for example, be providedby a tensioning screw that is capable of reversiblycontracting/extending a spring to thus adjust the biasing device biasapplied. Such a tensioning screw may prove useful in calibrating thebraking mechanism quickly and easily without requiring disassembling toadjust or replace the biasing device. In auto-belay applications suchquick calibration may prove important where it is necessary to changethe maximum rotation speed required.

It will be appreciated that the biasing device may be configured to biasthe conductive member toward or away from the applied magnetic fielddepending on the requirements of the respective application. Forexample, in applications requiring increasing braking torque withincreasing applied torque (to prevent acceleration), the biasing devicepreferably biases the conductive member radially out of the appliedmagnetic field.

In an alternative embodiment, (for applications requiring a decreasingbraking torque with applied torque) the biasing device may be attachedto the conductive member and to the rotor to provide a bias to theconductive member to move the conductive member radially into theapplied magnetic field. The conductive member may be configured to moveradially inward on rotation, e.g. by providing a counterweight orpositioning the mass centroid on an opposing side of the pivot axis tothe biasing device attachment. Such an embodiment may be achieved forexample by providing a conductive member on one end of a lever pivotableabout an intermediate point, the other lever end having a counterweightconfigured to move outwardly under centrifugal effects when the rotorrotates. The conductive member, or alternatively the counterweight, maybe attached to the rotor via a biasing device to bias the conductivemember towards the applied magnetic field. Therefore, as the rotorrotates, the lever will pivot the conductive member away from themagnetic field against the bias and braking torque applied to theconductive member.

Preferably, the biasing device is attached to the rotor at a positionspaced from the eccentric pivot axis in the direction of rotation to bebraked.

In an alternative embodiment, the biasing device may be provided as atorsion spring or similar attached at one end to the rotor and at theother end to the conductive member about the pivot axis, the torsionspring configured to oppose pivoting of the conductive member toward oraway (depending on the application) from the magnetic field.

The aforementioned spring configurations constrain the pivoting range ofthe conductive member between the maximum and minimum spring extension,preferably with, respectively, the maximum and minimum area ofconductive member intersecting the applied magnetic field.

The pivoting range is also preferably constrained to one side of thepivot axis to ensure that the braking torque is only applied in onerotation direction and not the opposing direction. Such a‘unidirectional’ configuration is useful in auto-belay applicationswhere it is undesirable to have a braking effect on the line whenascending, as this will oppose the line retraction mechanism andpotentially create slack in the line.

The rate at which the conductive member moves toward the magnetic fieldis dependant on the applied torque, ‘spring’ bias and the reactionarycentrifugal force acting on the conductive member, i.e. the conductivemember will move toward the magnetic field if the component of appliedtorque and centrifugal force (dependant on rotation speed and conductivemember mass) opposing the spring bias is greater than the spring bias.As the spring extends, the spring ‘bias’ or restoring force F_(S)increases approximately according to F_(S)=k x, where k is the springconstant and x is the extension from equilibrium. Once the conductivemember is in the magnetic field, the eddy-current reactive force will beadded to the pivoting caused by the applied torque and centrifugalforce, the spring bias thus opposes all three forces and the spring willtherefore extend until the restoring force equals the torque applied tothe conductive member about the pivot axis.

Preferably, the braking mechanism includes a plurality of permanentmagnets arranged in a generally circular or arcuate magnet array,concentric with the rotor.

In an alternative embodiment the braking mechanism may include aplurality of permanent magnets arranged in a linear array, for examplein a square or triangular array, with the rotor axis generally in thecenter thereof.

Preferably, two said arrays are provided on opposing sides of the planeof rotation of the conductive member, the magnets of each array havingopposite poles substantially opposing each other. A magnetic field isthus created that extends between the opposing poles (North opposingSouth) of opposing magnets, preferably in a direction substantiallyperpendicular to the plane of rotation of the conductive member.

In an alternative embodiment, one array may be provided on one side ofthe rotor and a steel or ferromagnetic plate located on the other side.However, it will be appreciated that such a ‘one-sided’ magnetic arraymay provide a weaker magnetic field than a comparative two-sided array.

In a further embodiment, the magnet array provided on one or both sidesof the conductive member may be arranged in a Halbach, or similarconfiguration to focus the magnetic field in the direction of theconductive member.

Preferably, the magnet array is provided with a steel or otherferromagnetic backing attached to a surface of the magnets on an‘outer’, opposing side to the conductive member.

In yet another embodiment the magnet may be provided as a single magnetshaped to encircle the rotor and conductive member such that radialmovement of the conductive member will result in the conductive memberintersecting the applied magnetic field.

It will be appreciated that in order for an eddy-current effect to begenerated, the conductive member must intersect and move relative to themagnetic field. By way of example, this may be achieved by:

-   -   a) fixing the magnet in position and rotating the rotor and        conductive member such that the conductive member intersects and        moves through the magnetic field and vice versa; or    -   b) rotating both the conductive member and the magnet, but at        differing angular velocity, e.g. the rotor and conductive member        may be configured to rotate in the same direction as the magnet        but at a greater angular velocity, or alternatively, the magnet        may be configured to rotate in the opposite direction to that of        the conductive member.

Thus, in one preferred embodiment, the magnet is fixed in position suchthat it does not rotate with the rotor, the rotor and conductive membersrotatable relative to the magnet such that the conductive memberintersects and moves through the magnetic field. It should beappreciated that the term “fixed” as used in this embodiment refers to amagnet being static relative to the rotor, e.g. similar to a motorstator. Thus, the term “fixed” should not be interpreted to mean themagnet is fixed in position relative to any housing, superstructure orother objects.

In a preferred embodiment the magnet is configured to rotate uponrotation of the rotor at a different angular velocity to that of therotor.

Rotation of the magnet(s) relative to the rotor as the rotor is rotatingprovides a mechanism for varying the relative angular velocity and hencethe strength of the braking torque. The magnet(s) may be rotated in thesame direction as the rotor to reduce the braking torque or in theopposite direction to increase it.

In a preferred embodiment the magnet is coupled to the rotor forrotation therewith in a substantially opposing direction to that of therotor.

In a preferred embodiment the rotor is coupled to the magnet via acoupling transmission.

In this embodiment a coupling transmission may be used to alter therelative angular velocity of the rotor (and conductive member) relativeto the magnet, where the applied torque drives a drum connected to themagnets and coupled to the rotor via a coupling transmission. Inalternate embodiments the arrangement may be the other way round.

Reference to a coupling transmission throughout this specificationshould be understood to refer to a mechanism used to transmit powerbetween two articles to which it is coupled. A coupling transmission maybe a mechanical or fluid gear transmission, or a chain drive or frictioncoupling, or by any other such transmission as are well known to thoseskilled in the art.

For example, a gear transmission may be configured to rotate themagnet(s) in the opposing direction to that of the rotor, therebypotentially multiplying the relative velocity between the conductivemember and magnet.

This braking mechanism may thus achieve an increased braking effect byincreasing the relative speed between the conductive member and magnet,without a significant increase in materials or size.

In other embodiments the rotor may be coupled to the magnet by a varietyof means, including by a chain drive or a friction coupling.

In a further embodiment, a stop may be provided for limiting the rangeof radial movement of the conductive member.

Preferably, the stop is positioned to limit the radial movement of theconductive member to a position of maximum magnetic field intercepted.

Such a stop can be utilised to transfer the braking force applied to theconductive member to the rotor by effectively ‘fixing’ the conductivemember with respect to the rotor while the conductive member is in themagnetic field.

Furthermore, provision of such a stop provides a ‘safety’ feature toensure that if the biasing device breaks, detaches or otherwise fails,the conductive member will still apply a braking torque (preferablymaximum) to the rotor. Without such a stop, the conductive member maymove out of the magnetic field and no longer apply a braking torque.

In an alternative embodiment, the stop may be provided as part of abiased ratchet mechanism, the conductive member moving against the biasto progressive radial positions and thus progressive levels of brakingtorque.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is providedan eddy-current braking mechanism including;

-   -   a rotor, rotatable about a rotor axis;    -   at least one electrically conductive member coupled to the rotor        for rotation therewith;    -   at least one magnet configured to apply a magnetic field        extending at least partially orthogonal to the conductive        member; and

characterised in that upon rotation of the rotor, the conductive memberis configured to move radially outward from the rotor axis into theapplied magnetic field, movement of the conductive member through theapplied magnetic field thereby inducing an eddy-current in theconductive member when the conductive member intersects the magneticfield.

Preferably, the magnetic field primarily extends substantiallyorthogonally to the plane of rotation of the conductive member.

Preferably, a plurality of magnets and conductive members are provided,each conductive member capable of reversible movement into a magneticfield applied by one or more of the magnets.

Preferably, the conductive member is configured to move with respect tothe rotor along a radial track from the rotor axis in response torotation of the rotor.

Preferably, the conductive member is configured to move into themagnetic field as a result of radial acceleration applied by the coupledrotor, the conductive member thus moving radially outward with respectto the rotor.

Preferably, a biasing device, such as a spring or equivalent biasingmember/mechanism is attached to the conductive member and to the rotorto provide a bias opposing the outward radial movement of the conductivemember. Calibration of the biasing device thus provides a means forcontrolling the rate of radial movement of the conductive member andtherefore the area of conductive member intersecting the magnetic field.

This ‘linear’ embodiment thus provides a braking mechanism that worksindependent of the direction of rotation of the rotor.

The configuration of the braking torque applied to both the ‘linear’ and‘pivoting’ (i.e. with pivoting conductive member) embodiments can bemodified and calibrated by changing the level of bias thereby providingan effective means of accommodating applications requiring specificbraking torque profiles.

An eddy-current braking mechanism according to the present invention maybe configured such that the speed of rotation of the rotor is constantover a range of applied torques (the “operating range”), the appliedtorque being the force applied to the rotor causing it to rotate. Thisconstant speed of rotation may arise due to any increase in the appliedtorque (in the operating range) being balanced by an equal and oppositeincrease in the braking torque arising from the induced eddy current asthe conductor intersects more of the magnet field.

Thus when the rotor initially begins to rotate an eddy-current brakingmechanism according to the present invention behaves like a prior artdevice in that the speed of rotation increases substantially linearlywith the applied torque. This situation continues until the electricalconductor, which is coupled to the rotor to rotate with it, enters theapplied magnetic field of the magnet. Movement of the conductor throughthe magnetic field induces eddy currents in the conductor which opposethe motion through the magnetic field, thus providing a braking force onthe motion of the conductor. The magnitude of the braking force dependson a number of factors, including the degree to which the conductorintersects the magnetic field and the strength of the field.

In an eddy-current braking mechanism according to the present inventionthe strength of the magnetic field, configuration of the conductor, andthe biasing mechanism, may all be chosen such that an increase in torqueapplied to the rotor is balanced by an equal and opposite increase inbraking torque throughout the required operating range of torque, thusresulting in a constant speed of rotation of the rotor throughout theoperating range.

At some applied torque the conductor may intersecting the maximum areaof magnetic field available under the particular embodiment of theinvention. At this torque the braking force is also at a maximum.Therefore, as the applied torque is increased further the speed ofrotation will again become substantially linear with respect to theincrease in applied torque.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided aline dispensing device including:

-   -   a braking mechanism substantially as hereinbefore described, and    -   a spool of line coupled to the rotor and/or conductive member        for rotation therewith.

Preferably, the line dispensing device is an auto-belay.

Preferably, the rotor and/or spool includes a biased retractingmechanism for opposing extension of line from the spool, the retractingmechanism configured to retract the line when tension applied to theline falls below a predetermined level.

As used herein, the term “line” refers to any cable, rope, string,chain, wire, strap or any other length of flexible material.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided amethod of braking rotation of an object, the method including the stepsof:

-   -   coupling a conductive member to the object for rotation        therewith;    -   providing at least one magnet configured to apply a magnetic        field extending at least partially into the plane of rotation of        the rotatable conductive member;    -   configuring the conductive member to move into the magnetic        field upon rotation of the object.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided amethod of braking rotation of an object substantially as hereinbeforedescribed, including the further step of:

-   -   rotating the object to thus move the conductive member into the        magnetic field, the magnetic field thereby inducing an        eddy-current in the conductive member.

The present invention may thus provide significant advantages over theprior art by providing an eddy-current braking mechanism capable of oneor more of:

-   -   limiting the speed to a constant level over a range of applied        torques    -   applying sufficient braking torque using a compact apparatus;    -   providing an eddy-current brake for use with        auto-descenders/auto-belays.

It will be appreciated that the present invention may therefore findparticular use for speed control and/or braking in numerousapplications, such as, by way of example, speed control of:

-   -   a rotor in wind, hydro, and other rotary turbines;    -   exercise equipment, e.g. rowing machines, epi-cyclic trainers;    -   roller-coasters and other amusement rides;    -   elevator and escalator systems;    -   evacuation descenders and fire-escape devices;    -   conveyor systems;    -   rotary drives in factory production facilities;    -   materials handling devices such as conveyor belts or a braking        device in a chute for example, or to control the descent rate of        an item down a slide;    -   dynamic display signage, e.g. in controlling the rotation speed        of rotating signs;    -   roadside safety systems, e.g. the brake may be connected in a        system to provide crash attenuation through the dissipation of        energy in the brake.

Indeed, the present invention may be used in any rotary braking and/orspeed limiting system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will becomeapparent from the following description which is given by way of exampleonly and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows a plot of Torque vs. Speed for an exemplary prior arteddy-current braking mechanism;

FIG. 2A shows a schematic plan diagram of an eddy current brakingmechanism according to one preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, the rotor being stationary;

FIG. 2B shows a schematic plan diagram of the eddy current brakingmechanism of FIG. 2A with the rotor rotating under an intermediatebraking torque;

FIG. 2C shows a schematic plan diagram of the eddy current brakingmechanism of FIGS. 2A and 2B with the rotor rotating under a maximumbraking torque;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic side elevation of part of the eddy currentbraking mechanism of FIGS. 2A-2C;

FIG. 4 shows a schematic side elevation of part of an alternativeconfiguration to the eddy-current braking mechanism shown in FIGS. 2A-2Cand 3;

FIG. 5A shows a force diagram of the eddy-current braking mechanismshown in FIGS. 2A-C and 3 when a torque is initially applied to therotor, i.e. at a ‘start-up’;

FIG. 5B shows a force diagram of the eddy-current braking mechanismshown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 3 when the applied torque is increasing;

FIG. 5C shows a force diagram of the eddy-current braking mechanismshown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 3 when a constant torque applied is matched bythe braking torque, i.e. at ‘steady-state’;

FIG. 5D shows a force diagram of the eddy-current braking mechanismshown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 3 at maximum braking torque;

FIG. 5E shows a force diagram of the eddy-current braking mechanismshown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 3 when the applied torque is decreasing;

FIG. 6 shows a plot of Torque vs. Speed of the rotor used with thebraking mechanism of FIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 5A-5E;

FIG. 7 shows a plot of Speed vs. Torque of the rotor used with thebraking mechanism of FIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 5A-5E;

FIG. 8 shows a plot of Speed vs. Torque of an alternative configurationof the braking mechanism of FIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 5A-5E;

FIG. 9 shows yet another plot of Speed vs. Torque of an alternativeconfiguration of the braking mechanism of FIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 5A-5E;

FIG. 10A shows a schematic plan diagram of an eddy current brakingmechanism according to a second preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 10B shows an enlarged view of part of the braking mechanism shownin FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11 shows a schematic illustration of an eddy current brakingmechanism according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 12 shows a schematic illustration of an eddy current brakingmechanism according to embodiments described herein.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a plot of Torque vs. Speed for an exemplary prior arteddy-current braking mechanism that utilises a conductive discconfigured to rotate in a magnetic field. Eddy-currents are induced inthe disc when the disc rotates and a reactive magnetic field isgenerated opposing the applied magnetic field. The opposing magneticfields create a reactive force opposing movement of the disc through themagnetic field.

The magnitude of the braking torque applied to the disc is dependant onthe magnetic field strength and the speed of rotation, thus as speedincreases, the braking torque also increases. This system will limit thespeed to a certain level depending on the applied torque. However, thebraking torque and therefore equilibrium speed are only linearlyproportional to the speed within a predetermined operating range (asshown in FIG. 1), until a threshold ‘characteristic speed’ (S) isreached where the braking torque becomes non-linear and peaks beforebeginning to reduce with further speed increases.

The prior art systems are thus only effective at regulating the speedwith a linear response to the applied torque until the characteristicspeed is reached. Thus, these prior art systems are unsuitable forauto-belay and other applications where it may be desirable to maintaina constant speed over a wider range of applied torques.

FIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 5A-5E show an eddy-current braking mechanismaccording to one preferred embodiment of the present invention asgenerally indicated by arrow 1. For clarity, in FIGS. 5A-5E only oneconductive member 3 is shown attached to the rotor 2.

The braking mechanism 1 is coupled to a spool of line (not shown)forming part of an auto-belay device (not shown). The spool of line isconnected to a rotor 2 of the braking mechanism 1 and will thus rotatewith the rotor 2. A line 23 extends from the spool to a harness of auser. The rotor 2 has a biased retracting mechanism (not shown) foropposing the extension of line 23 from the spool and for automaticallyretracting the line 23 when the line tension (and applied torque) isreduced, e.g. when a user is ascending while climbing.

The rate of line dispensing from the spool can thus be regulated bycontrolling the speed of rotation of the rotor 2 with the brakingmechanism 1.

The braking mechanism 1 includes the rotor 2, rotatable about a rotoraxis X and three electrically conductive members provided in the form ofpivoting arms 3 coupled to the rotor 2. The arms 3 are pivotallyattached to the rotor 2 at points 8 eccentric to the rotor axis X.

A plurality of magnets 4 are provided and fixed in position relative tothe rotor axis X. The magnets 4 form two circular arrays 5 (only oneshown in FIG. 2) on opposing sides of the plane of rotation of the arms3 and rotor 2.

FIG. 3 shows the magnets 4 positioned either side of the plane ofrotation of the arms 3.

Each magnet array 5 is arranged coaxially with the rotor 2 and applies amagnetic field 6 extending orthogonal to the plane of rotation of thearms 3.

The magnets 4 of the two magnet arrays 5 have opposite polessubstantially opposing each other. Thus, a magnetic field 6 is createdthat extends between the opposing poles (North opposing South) ofopposing magnets 4, in a direction orthogonal to the plane of rotationof the rotor 2 and arms 3.

Steel or other ferromagnetic backing 7 (shown in FIG. 3) is attached tothe outer surface of each magnet array 5 on an opposing side to the arms3. This steel backing 7 helps reinforce the magnetic field 6 as well aspotentially protecting the magnets 4 from impact damage.

An alternative configuration is shown in FIG. 4 where only one magnetarray 5 has steel backing 7.

As shown in the progression from FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C, upon a tangentialforce F_(App) being applied to the rotor 2 (e.g. from a climberdescending), the rotor 2 will rotate and the arms 3 will pivot aboutpivot points 8. As the applied force F_(App) accelerates the rotor 2,the arms 3 will move into, and intersect the applied magnetic field 6.Any movement of the arms 3 through the applied magnetic field 6 (e.g.when rotating) induces eddy-currents in the arms 3 which in turngenerate reactive magnetic fields opposing the applied magnetic field 6.

The arms 3 have an arc-shaped outer edge 10 matching the profile of themagnet array 5 so that the maximum area of field 6 is intersected whilealso minimising size and weight of the arms 3. The arms 3 are shaped tonest together when the rotor is stationary, i.e. the ‘rear’ of eachconductive member 3 is shaped to abut with the ‘front’ of the nextconductive member 3. It will be appreciated that reference herein to therotor being “stationary” refers to the rotor not rotating or movingrelative to the magnetic field 6.

As the arms 3 pivot about the pivot points 8, a progressively greaterpart of each arm 3 moves into and intersects the magnetic field 6. Thearms 3 are also shaped so that in the contracted position shown in FIG.2A, the arms 3 fit together to occupy the minimal amount of spacepossible, thereby minimising the size requirements of the brakingmechanism 1 while maximising the potential braking torque when in themagnetic field 6 as shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C.

Biasing devices are provided in the form of springs 12 attached to thearms 3 at points 13 distal to the pivot axis 8 and to the rotor 2 at aposition 14 spaced from the pivot axis 8 in the direction of rotation Rto be braked, i.e. shown as clockwise in FIG. 2. The springs 12 therebyprovide a bias opposing the pivoting (and thereby radial) movement ofthe arms 3. The strength of the springs 12 can be changed to control themovement of the arms 3 toward the magnetic field 6 and therefore thecharacteristics of the braking mechanism 1.

The pivoting range of the arms 3 is constrained by the springs 12 to onesector, thereby ensuring that the arms 3 will only move into themagnetic field 6 when rotating in one direction. Such a ‘unidirectional’configuration is useful in auto-belay applications where it isundesirable to have a braking effect on the line 23 when ascending, asthis may oppose the line retraction mechanism and potentially createslack in the line 23.

With reference to FIG. 12, safety stops 300 are attached to the rotor 2and engage with the arms 3 to limit the range of arms 3 pivotingmovement. The stops 300 are formed by a sliding engagement between aprotrusion 310 attached to the arms 3 and a rigid slot 320 that is fixedto the rotor 2. The protrusion 310 is free to slide in the slot 320 butis limited by the extent of the slot 320 which limits the range ofmovement of the arms 3. The stops 300 thus provide a ‘safety’ feature toensure that if the spring 12 breaks, detaches or otherwise fails, thearms 3 will still apply a braking torque (preferably maximum) to therotor 2. The stop 300 also assists in transferring braking torque to therotor 2 when the protrusion 310 reaches the extent of the slot 320.

The arms 3 are mounted eccentrically to the rotor axis X such that eacharm 3 has a center of mass 9 eccentric to the pivot 8 and rotor axes Xsuch that when the rotor 2 rotates, the arms 3 will move radiallyoutward and pivot the arms 3 about the pivot point 8.

In an auto-belay application, tension is placed on the line 23 wrappedabout the rotor 2 or connected spool by a load (e.g. a human) andthereby applies a torque (T_(App)=F_(App)×r) on the rotor 2 to causerotation.

The applied magnetic field 6 induces eddy-currents in the arm 3 and areactive magnetic field is generated that opposes the applied magneticfield 6. The repelling force between the applied and reactive magneticfields thus provides a reactive force F_(EDDY) opposing the movement ofthe arms 3 through the magnetic field 6. FIGS. 5A to 5E are partialschematic diagrams showing the forces acting on each arm 3. For clarity,only one arm 3 is shown in FIGS. 5A to 5E.

It will be appreciated that the force diagrams of FIGS. 5A to 5E do notshow an accurate detailed analysis of the many and varied dynamic forcesacting on the arm 3 and thus the forces shown are simplistic andindicative only. The force diagrams 5A to 5E, are provided to show asimplified example of the primary forces acting on the arm. Each diagram5A to 5E includes a box with the main forces added to show theapproximate net force at the center of mass 9. It should be appreciatedthat these forces are indicative only and the force lines may not be ofaccurate length or direction.

FIG. 5A shows a force diagram of the eddy-current braking mechanism 1 inan initial ‘start-up’ stage where there is only a tangentially appliedforce F_(App) and the spring 12 is not extended. As this force F_(App)is applied tangentially to the rotor, a torque T_(App) is applied to therotor and it will accelerate from rest. Components (F_(App)(8) andF_(App)(13)) of this force F_(App) are respectively applied to the arm 3via the pivot point 8 and spring connection 13.

It should be appreciated that in another configuration, an arm(s) may beshaped and positioned such that in the start-up phase at least a portionof the arm intersects the magnetic field. An eddy-current braking effectwill thus be applied as soon as the rotor starts to rotate.

Also, as the arm 3 is connected to the rotor 2, when rotating it willaccelerate toward the rotor axis X under centripetal acceleration. Thecentripetal force is applied to the body via the connections 8, 13.F_(cp) is the force exerted by the mass centroid 9 on the arm 3resisting the centripetal acceleration of the arm 3.

The arm 3 also has an inertia resisting changes in movement. For thepurposes of this analysis this inertia will relate to the arm mass andmoment of inertia acting about the mass centroid 9.

The forces shown in FIGS. 5A to 5E are detailed in the following tablewith approximate formulae. It will be appreciated that these formulaeand forces are approximate and indicative only.

Force Symbol Indicative relationship formula Applied Force F_(App) Forceapplied by tension on line 23. Applied Force through F_(App)(8)Component of F_(App) acting through pivot point 8. pivot point 8${Approx}\mspace{14mu} {equal}\mspace{14mu} {to}\mspace{14mu} \frac{T_{App} - {F_{{App}{(13)}} \cdot R_{2}}}{R_{1}}$where R₁ is the distance of the pivot point 8 from the rotor axis X, andR₂ is the perpendicular distance of the spring 12 from the rotor axis X.Applied Force through F_(App)(13) Component of F_(App) acting throughconnection 13 connection 13. Approx equal to F_(s). Applied TorqueT_(App) Approx equal to F_(App) × r where r is the radius of the rotor 2to the line 23. Applied Force through F_(R)(8) A resultant force fromthe combination of pivot 8 F_(App)(8), F_(App)(13), F_(cp), and F_(EDDY)acting on the rotor via pivot 8 Resultant Force F_(R) A resultant of theforce vectors F_(App)(13), F_(App)(8), F_(cp) and F_(EDDY) acting at thearm 3 mass centroid 9. Resultant Moment M_(R) A resultant moment actingabout the arm 3 mass centroid 9 due to the of the force vectorsF_(App)(13), F_(App)(8), F_(cp) and F_(EDDY) and their respective leverarms. Braking force caused by F_(EDDY) Braking force caused byeddy-current eddy-current braking reactive magnetic field interactingwith effect applied magnetic field 6. Approx proportional to area ofmagnetic field 6 intersected by the arms 3; strength of the magneticfield 6 intersecting the arms 3; resistivity fo the arms 3; and relativevelocity of the arms 3 with respect to the magnetic field 6. Brakingtorque caused by T_(EDDY) Torque applied to the conductive arm 3 byeddy-current braking the braking force F_(EDDY). Approx equal to effectthe F_(EDDY) × l where l is the perpendicular distance from the line ofaction of the force F_(EDDY) to the pivot point 8, i.e. R₃ in thedrawings. Spring Bias force F_(S) Approx equal to kx + c where k is thespring constant, x is the extension from equilibrium and c is the springpre-tension. Braking torque on rotor T_(B) Proportional to thecomponents of the braking force F_(EDDY) acting through the pivot point8 and connection 14. Centrifugal force acting F_(cp) Approx equal to themass of the arm 3 at on the arm 3 mass the mass centroid 9 multiplied byv²/R₁ centroid 9 where v is the tangential velocity of the rotor at thepivot point X.

In the start-up state shown in FIG. 5A, the combined force F_(R) of theforces F_(App)(8) and F_(App)(13) act approximately on the mass centroid9 of the arm 3. The offset of the forces F_(App)(8) and F_(App)(13) fromthe mass centroid 9, R_(FApp(8)) and respectively, provide a momentM_(R) about the mass centroid 9 of the arm R_(FApp(13)) 3. The forceF_(R) therefore acts to accelerate the arm radially outwards and themoment M_(R) acts to rotationally accelerate the arm in the samerotational direction as the rotor 2.

The arm 3 is constrained at the pivot point 8 but is not rigidly fixedat connection 13.

As the arm 3 is accelerated outward by the resultant force F_(R), thearm rotates about pivot point 8 in an anticlockwise direction withrespect to the rotor 2 and the spring 12 is extended thus increasing thespring bias F_(S) and the applied force F_(App)(13). With an increase inF_(S) a larger proportion of T_(App) is transferred to the arm 3 via thespring 12 and the force F_(App)(8) applied through the pivot 8 isreduced. The resultant force F_(R) acting on the mass centroid 9 changesthe direction in a clockwise motion.

As the applied direction of F_(R) moves forward of a radial line fromthe axis X to the mass centroid 9, the force accelerates the arm 3 in aclockwise direction. FIG. 5B shows the applied force F_(App)accelerating the rotor 2 and attached arm 3. The arm 3 is pivoted at agreater angular displacement than that shown in FIG. 5a and nowintersects the magnetic field 6. The rotor 2 and arm 3 have gainedangular velocity about the rotor axis X and the arm 3 is acceleratedtowards the rotor axis X under centripetal acceleration. The masscentroid 9 applies a centrifugal force F_(cp) to the arm 3.

In addition to the rotary forces, the eddy-current braking forceF_(EDDY) is also applied as the arm 3 is moving through the magneticfield. The resultant force F_(R) of the forces F_(App)(8), F_(App)(13),F_(cp), and F_(EDDY) act on the mass centroid 8 to accelerate the arm 3further outward from the rotor axis X. The resulting anticlockwiserotation of the arm 3 about the pivot 8 increases the distance betweenconnection 13 and connection 14 thereby extending the spring 12. Theextension of the spring 12 increases the spring bias F_(S) andcorrespondently increases F_(App)(13) applied to connection 13. Therotor 2 will continue to accelerate and the arm 3 will continue to pivotanticlockwise until the force F_(App)(13) applied by the spring 12 onthe arm 3 is sufficiently large to balance the forces acting on the armsuch that F_(R) and M_(R) reduce to zero. At this point, the brakingtorque T_(B) applied to the rotor through the transfer of F_(EDDY) viapivot 8 and connection 14 equals the applied torque T_(App), the angularacceleration is thus equal to zero and the rotor 2 will rotate at aconstant speed. A steady-state equilibrium position is then reached asshown in FIG. 5C.

The variables that contribute to the braking torque T_(B) applied to therotor 2 can all be controlled by appropriate calibration of the springs12 and mass centroid 9, and thus the braking mechanism 1 can providesubstantial control over the braking torque T_(B) response to suit theparticular application.

Any changes in the applied torque T_(App) will result in a commensurateincrease in the radial displacement of the arm 3 and the braking torqueT_(EDDY) applied by the magnetic field 6 and the reactionary forceF_(R). However, it will be appreciated that the maximum braking torqueT_(B) achievable is constrained by the physical parameters of themechanism 1.

FIG. 5D shows the arm 3 at a point of maximum radial displacement wherethe maximum magnetic field is intersected by the arm 3. The brakingtorque T_(B) is equal to the applied torque T_(App). However, anyfurther increases in applied torque T_(App) will not result in the arm 3moving radially outward as the spring is extended to its maximum extentand the arm 3 is in contact with the safety stop (not shown). Thebraking torque T_(B) can therefore not increase any further. Any furtherincreases in applied torque T_(App) will therefore accelerate the rotor2.

FIG. 5E shows a decreasing applied torque T_(App) on the brakingmechanism 1.

As the applied torque T_(App) is reduced, a commensurate decrease inF_(App)(8) occurs to balance the applied torque T_(App) while the springbias force F_(S) remains temporarily unchanged. The resultant forceF_(R) from the forces F_(App)(8), F_(App)(13), F_(cp), and F_(EDDY) acton the mass centroid 9 such that it accelerates the arm 3 inward towardsthe rotor axis X. The resulting clockwise rotation of the arm 3 aboutthe pivot 8 decreases the distance between connection 13 and connection14. The resulting reduction in extension of the spring 12 results in areduction in spring bias F_(S) and F_(App)(13). At the same time thereis a reduction in the area of the arm 3 intersected by the magneticfield 6 with a corresponding reduction in the eddy-current braking forceF_(EDDY).

The arm 3 continues to rotate clockwise about pivot 8 until the forcesacting on the arm 3 balance such that the magnitude of F_(R) is zerowith a corresponding reduction in the acceleration of the mass centroid9 to zero and thus the system in in a state of equilibrium. At thispoint the braking torque T_(B) generated by the transfer of theeddy-current braking force F_(EDDY) through the pivot 8 and connection14 balances the applied torque T_(App) and the acceleration of the rotor2 is thus zero.

The speed of rotation can therefore be limited by adjusting the springbias F_(S) to ensure that the braking torque T_(B) increasesproportionally to the applied torque T_(A) and both forces are keptequal throughout an ‘operating range’ of applied torques.

As aforementioned, the magnitude of the reactive force F_(EDDY) isdependant on the:

-   -   area of magnetic field 6 intersected by the arms 3;    -   strength of the magnetic field 6 intersecting the arms 3;    -   resistivity of the arms 3; and    -   relative velocity of the arms 3 with respect to the magnetic        field 6.

The braking mechanism 1 shown in FIGS. 2-5 provides automatic variationin both the area A of the applied magnetic field 6 intersected and thedistance R between the arms 3 and rotor axis X by variation in theradial movement of the arms 3 into the applied magnetic field 6. Thus,in the operating range, changes in the applied torque T_(App) willresult in a commensurate change in the braking torque T_(B) applied tothe rotor 2.

It will be appreciated that the maximum braking torque achievable willdepend on the physical constraints of the mechanism, e.g. size andstrength of magnets, size, thickness and conductivity of the arm 3.Furthermore, the rotor 2 must experience a minimum applied torque, andtherefore minimum rotational acceleration and speed, before the arm 3applies a sufficient braking torque to limit the rotation speed.

As alluded to previously, a “reverse” configuration to what has beenpreviously described is also within the scope of the present invention.In this “reverse” configuration, the magnets may be coupled to the rotorand configured to move toward a conductive member such that theconductive member will intersect the magnetic field. With reference toFIGS. 2A-2C, 3 and 5A-5E, in the “reverse” configuration, brakingmechanism 1 includes the rotor 2, rotatable about a rotor axis X, andthree pivoting magnets 3 coupled to the rotor 2. The magnets 3 arepivotally coupled with the rotor 2 at points 8 eccentric to the rotoraxis X. A plurality of conductive members 4 form two circular arrays 5(only one shown in FIGS. 2A-2C) on opposing sides of the plane ofrotation of the magnets 3 and rotor 2.

The braking mechanism 1 limits the speed in an operating range betweenthese maximum and minimum applied torques. Speed profiles of the brakingmechanism 1 showing the operating range are shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

As can be seen from FIGS. 6 and 7, the speed initially increases withapplied torque T_(App) until the resultant force F_(R) acting on themass centroid 9 accelerates the arms 3 outward into the magnetic field 6and the reactive braking force F_(EDDY) is applied. The resultantbraking torque T_(B) will increase and then equal the applied torqueT_(App). The speed of rotation is thereby limited to a constant value asno acceleration can occur due to the applied torque T_(App) beingcontinually matched by the braking torque T_(B). Increases in appliedtorque T_(App) are matched by increases in braking torque T_(B) until anupper limit is reached where the maximum area of magnetic field 6 isintersected and thus the magnetic field reactive force F_(B) generatedis proportional to speed only. After the upper limit, the speed profileis similar to prior art devices which vary the braking torque T_(B) withspeed only.

Different speed responses to applied torques can be achieved by varyingthe spring bias. Examples of alternative speed profiles are shown inFIGS. 8 and 9.

The profile shown in FIG. 8 is achievable by providing a relatively‘weak’ spring (i.e. small restoring bias and spring constant) comparedwith the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 such that the braking torqueapplied upon magnetic field intersection is greater than the appliedtorque T_(A) throughout the operating range. Thus, the speed of rotationis reduced with increasing applied torque T_(App) until the appliedtorque T_(App) exceeds the braking torque T_(B).

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9, a relatively ‘strong’ spring (i.e.large restoring bias and spring constant) may be used such that theapplied torque T_(A) exceeds the braking torque T_(B) over the operatingrange. Thus, the speed of rotation increases linearly with increasingapplied torque T_(App) until the braking torque T_(B) exceeds theapplied torque T_(App).

It will thus be appreciated that the present invention may be modifiedto accommodate any speed response required for the application simply byadjusting or changing the spring 12.

FIGS. 10A and 10B shows a braking mechanism 100 according to anotherembodiment of the present invention with the arms provided in the formof plates 103. The plates 103 are capable of radial movement alongtracks 101 provided in the rotor 102. The plates 103 are coupled via thetracks 101 to the rotor 102 so that the plates rotate with the rotor 102and tracks 101. Springs 112 are attached to the rotor 102 and to theplates 103. The springs 112 when extended apply a biasing force F_(S) tobias the plates 103 toward the rotor axis X.

The torque T_(App) applies a tangential force F_(App) on the plates 103and the spring applies a centripetal force F_(cp). The centripetalacceleration of the springs 112 toward the rotor axis X results in theplates 103 moving radially outwards into the magnetic field 106 whileextending the springs 112. Thus, the braking force F_(B) applied willvary proportional to the tangential velocity of the plates 103 and thespring bias F_(S).

In contrast to the braking mechanism 1 of FIGS. 2A-5E, it will beappreciated that this braking mechanism 100 does not provide a set limitto the speed as the movement of the plates 103 is proportional to therotor speed, rather than also to the applied torque as in the brakingmechanism 1.

The magnet array (not shown) of this ‘linear’ embodiment is provided inthe same configuration as that shown in the first preferred ‘pivoting’embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A-2C and 3.

As the plates 103 move radially outward under any rotor rotation (i.e.primarily under centrifugal effects), this ‘linear’ embodiment providesa braking mechanism 100 that works independent of the direction ofrotation of the rotor 102.

Although the braking mechanism 100 provides a braking effect independentof the rotation direction, the braking torque varies only with the speedof rotation (and therefore centripetal acceleration) and not the torqueapplied. The speed will only be limited when the braking torque equalsthe applied torque and thus a greater applied torque (e.g. a heavierperson) will result in the speed being limited at a higher equilibriumspeed than a correspondingly ‘lighter’ person. Thus, this brakingmechanism 100 does not provide the level of control of the brakingmechanism 1 shown in FIGS. 2A- 5E.

Another embodiment of a braking mechanism is generally indicated byarrow 201 in FIG. 11. In this embodiment an array of magnets (204) ismounted on a cradle (220). A rotor (202), having pivotally mountedconductors (203), is mounted on an axle (205) for rotation about therotor axis (X).

The cradle (220) is configured to rotate about the rotor axis (X) and isconnected to it by a gear transmission (230). In the arrangement shownin FIG. 11 the gear transmission (230) is configured such that thecradle (220) (including the magnetic array (204)) rotates in an oppositedirection to the rotor (202) (and conductors (203)) thus increasing therelative angular velocity of the rotor (202) and conductor members (203)relative to the magnetic array (204). Such an arrangement for thebraking mechanism may achieve an increased braking effect.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of exampleonly and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions maybe made thereto without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

1-36. (canceled)
 37. An eddy-current braking mechanism comprising: arotor, rotatable about a rotor axis; at least one magnet coupled withthe rotor; an array of electrically conductive members aligned coaxiallywith the rotor; and a biasing device attached to the at least one magnetand the rotor, the biasing device being configured to provide a biasopposing the outward or inward radial movement of the at least onemagnet; wherein the at least one magnet coupled with the rotor movesrelative to the rotor axis in a radial direction when the rotor rotatesaround the rotor axis; and wherein the eddy current braking mechanism isconfigured such that an increasing portion of the at least one magnetoverlaps with the array of electrically conductive members in an axialdirection as the rotor goes from stationary to rotating.
 38. Theeddy-current braking mechanism of claim 37, wherein the biasing deviceconstrains the pivoting range of the at least one magnet between amaximum area of magnet overlap with the electrically conductive membersand a minimum area of magnet overlap with the electrically conductivemembers.
 39. The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37,wherein the at least one magnet is coupled directly to the rotor. 40.The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein theat least one magnet is pivotally coupled to the rotor and pivots about apivot axis.
 41. The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim37, wherein the at least one magnet has a center of mass on or eccentricto the pivot and rotor axes.
 42. The eddy-current braking mechanism asclaimed in claim 37, wherein the at least one magnet is pivotallyattached to the rotor at a point eccentric to the rotor axis.
 43. Theeddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein thebiasing device is attached to the rotor at a point eccentric to thepivot axis.
 44. The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim37, wherein a stop is provided for limiting the range of movement of theat least one magnet.
 45. The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimedin claim 44, wherein the stop is positioned at a point of maximumoverlap between the at least one magnet and the at least oneelectrically conductive member.
 46. The eddy-current braking mechanismas claimed in claim 37, wherein the at least one electrically conductivemember is arranged in two generally circular shapes or arrays, one oneach opposing side of the plane of rotation of the at least one magnet.47. The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, whereinthe at least one electrically conductive member shape or array isprovided on one side of the rotor.
 48. The eddy-current brakingmechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein the at least one magnet doesnot overlap the at least one electrically conductive member in a rotoraxis direction when the rotor is stationary.
 49. The eddy-currentbraking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein the biasing device isattached to the at least one magnet at a point distal to the rotor axisand to the rotor at a position to provide a bias opposing the at leastone magnet movement resulting from rotor rotation.
 50. The eddy-currentbraking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein the mechanismcomprises at least two magnets and the magnets move independently. 51.The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein themechanism includes at least two magnets and wherein the at least twomagnets nest together when the rotor is stationary.
 52. The eddy-currentbraking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein the mechanism includesat least two magnets and wherein the rear of each magnet abuts with thefront of the next magnet when the rotor is stationary.
 53. Theeddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein the atleast one magnet is T-shaped.
 54. The eddy-current braking mechanism asclaimed in claim 37, wherein the at least one magnet has or have an atleast partially arc shaped cross-section shape.
 55. The eddy-currentbraking mechanism as claimed in claim 37, wherein the at least onemagnet has or have a unidirectional configuration with braking torqueonly applied in one rotation direction and not the opposing direction.56. The eddy-current braking mechanism as claimed in claim 37 whereinthe rotor is a wheel.
 57. An eddy-current braking mechanism comprising:a rotor, rotatable about a rotor axis; at least one magnet coupled withthe rotor; an array of electrically conductive members aligned coaxiallywith the rotor; and a biasing device attached to the at least one magnetand the rotor, the biasing device being configured to provide a biasopposing the outward or inward radial movement of the at least onemagnet; wherein the at least one magnet coupled with the rotor movesrelative to the rotor axis in a radial direction when the rotor rotatesaround the rotor axis to thereby adjust the amount of overlap betweenthe at least one magnet and the array of electrically conductive membersin an axial direction; and wherein the biasing device constrains thepivoting range of the at least one magnet between a maximum area ofmagnet overlap with the electrically conductive members and a minimumarea of magnet overlap with the electrically conductive members.